Flydubai confirmed that almost 90% of its staff are hired from Dubai. The airline shared the update during a briefing at Dubai Airshow 2025. The announcement follows the company’s new aircraft order of 225 planes worth $37 billion. Flydubai said the workforce expansion supports its long-term operational growth.
Local talent drives the airline’s expansion
CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith said Dubai now offers a strong and consistent talent pool. He noted that the airline rarely recruits abroad. Instead, Flydubai hires employees already living in the emirate or relocating independently. Al Ghaith explained that the company feels confident in the availability of skilled people within Dubai and the UAE.
Training programmes strengthen pilot and engineering pipelines
Flydubai said it develops pilots and engineers through its in-house training systems. The company begins training pilots from the early stages of their careers. It also runs programmes to prepare future engineers. These steps, Flydubai said, ensure a reliable and long-term pipeline of aviation professionals who can support fleet growth.
Workforce growth supports strategic plans
The airline grew its workforce to more than 6,500 employees across multiple functions by August 2025. This represented a 10% increase compared to 2024. Flydubai said the rise reflects sustained hiring across engineering, operations, ground services and cabin crew roles. The company continues to strengthen its teams as fleet size and route networks expand.
Aviation sector shows long-term workforce demand
Airbus recently estimated that the UAE and Middle East region will require more than 265,000 aviation professionals over the next 20 years. The region will need 69,000 new pilots, 64,000 technicians and 132,000 cabin crew. Flydubai said its talent pipelines align with these regional needs.
How candidates in the UAE can apply
Applicants can apply through the Flydubai careers portal. The process includes an online application, an assessment test and a video interview for cabin crew roles. Successful candidates receive a basic salary plus housing and transport allowances of Dh8,275. Cabin crew also earn variable flying pay averaging Dh4,500 based on 90 flying hours. Benefits include medical insurance, end-of-service pay, 30 days of annual leave and concessional tickets for family and friends. Flydubai has listed multiple vacancies in engineering, crew scheduling, safety compliance and other functions.
